Baby Land Cruiser revealed as new 'FJ'
Like the idea of a Land Cruiser but don't need all that space? Toyota has just the thing...
Despite its obvious shortcomings, we rather like the current Land Cruiser - specifically the 250 variant that Toyota currently sells in the UK. A ‘simple, sturdy vehicle that helps fulfil customers' lifestyle choices and practical needs’ is how its maker describes the model (distinct from the ritzier 300 and workhorse-y 70 Series not available here), and that does rather cover it. It is very much like the Defender that Land Rover might have built if it were actually replacing the old Defender, rather than giving the majority of people the upmarket SUV they wanted. No surprise then that it appeals to the lively minority who were partial to the original.
Sensing that it’s onto something - and doubtless buoyed by the response to the 250 - Toyota has forged ahead with plans to broaden the Land Cruiser range even further by introducing this, the FJ. Those letters apparently signify the value of “Freedom & Joy” that the car is meant to convey - but let’s gloss over that and focus on the fact that this is effectively a 250 but with a 270mm shorter wheelbase. Current owners of the full-sized car might scoff at the reduction in usable space that requires, though it’s not hard to see why Japanese users might favour a Land Cruiser that is 4.5 metres long rather than nearly 5. A friend to tiny streets and car parks, the 250 is not.
We mention the JDM specifically because that’s where the FJ will be exclusively sold when it launches next year. Accordingly, it is powered by a 2.7-litre four-pot with 160hp and 181lb ft of torque via a six-speed automatic. If that sounds about as well-suited to European tastes as an Ikizukuri starter, then you’re not wrong: Toyota has not confirmed which other markets the new model will be made available in, and it’ll likely require hybridisation (much as the 250 is introducing) if it does launch here. But there’s every reason to think it might, based on the proven appetite for compact SUVs and its maker’s ambitions for the Land Cruiser brand.
To that end, all the right claims are made on paper: the FJ is said to be just as capable as its big brother off-road, with all the advantages of a 5.5m turning circle, and features segmented bumpers front and rear that are not only removable for easy repair, but also permit customisation. There will also be MOLLE panels for attaching outdoor equipment to, and even something called a Land Hopper (basically a fold-out electric bike, should Toyota continue with its development) for you to continue your journey in whiny silence. If that all sounds ideal for your active lifestyle, we’d recommend lobbying your local dealer. Certainly, the manufacturer appears to be listening.
I would guess, given the success of the big one and the latest Jimny, they could sell every one they imported.
It would be over £50k though wouldn't it?
There's a me shaped niche for a smaller but capable truck. A 3/4 or 7/8 scale Hilux would be perfect for my needs.
Will probably be a great vehicle though and be in high demand - it's good that Toyota are expanding the range.
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